If you're looking for somewhere in the early evening on an ad hoc basis, there is (or was) a piano at St Thomas's Hospital. I often used to practise there. Free of charge! Drawback is that other use it for practice too and if someone's on it you could have a wait!

Someone else might be able to suggest a music studio somewhere, but I can't think of any.

My wife bought me a Yamaha Clavinova last Christmas. It is a full-sized all-singing, all-dancing electric piano. It is easily transportable in a medium-sized hatchback car. If you haven't got space for an upright I'd highly recommend the Clavinova.

Tattie - that is a generous offer! I live in a small flat on the 2nd floor and not sure I have the space - but just out of interest how large is your piano? Perhaps I could find another place for it...

Gavin - thanks for the tip. Although, I might have to do a bit of practising to get myself back up to speed before I let myself loose in public ;-)

I echo Jules' advice. I had a lovely upright for several years and to be honest my digital piano (Clavinova) is superior in sound and touch and has the benefit of being able to plug headphones in so as not to bother the neighbours or anyone else. I particularly enjoy playing with the various sounds and backing tracks/drums etc and makes even my (poor) playing sound adequate!

Tattie - that is a generous offer! I live in a small flat on the 2nd floor and not sure I have the space - but just out of interest how large is your piano? Perhaps I could find another place for it...